Human rights top issue

Human rights will be one of the main issues raised at the annual Small Island Developing States (SIDS) meeting in Samoa later this year. Pictured are FWCC members with a "Free West Papua" message last week. Picture: File

HUMAN rights will be one of the main issues raised by young people across the region during the annual Small Island Developing States (SIDS) meeting in Samoa later this year.

In a bid to compile a list of such issues to be discussed at the meeting, including freedom of expression and the right to information, a regional youth and civil society dialogue has started in Nadi.

Pacific Youth Council secretariat co-ordinator Tarusila Bradburgh said this was an important way to foster development that was meaningful to all citizens.

"We are enabling the environment and space for young people to voice their concerns and contribute to effective and relevant development policies should be an integral part of nation building," she said.

About 36 participants participated in the workshop.

"With partnerships being the buzzword of the Pacific region as it gears up for the SIDS conference in Samoa this September, the Pacific young people are calling on their Pacific governments to hear their voice when making key decisions at this global forum."